The Sunday Peoplewas first to report the news of the photos' existence, noting that it turned down an offer to view them "and, like the rest of the British media, will not publish them."

One photo revealed ahead of the magazine's Wednesday release date shows a bikini-clad Kate walking on the beach with her husband and her oh-so-slight bump, which is mostly obscured by shadows.

Despite the comparatively benign nature of the photos, they were still intrusive enough to warrant a strongly worded statement from St James's Palace.

"We are disappointed that photographs of the Duke and Duchess on a private holiday look likely to be published overseas," a royal spokeswoman said. "This is a clear breach of the couple's right to privacy."

It was unclear, however, if the royal family planned to take legal action as they had following last year's topless shots.

The Duchess, who is said to be due in July, is expected to make her second official public appearance since December's pregnancy announcement on February 19th. It was speculated that she would use the opportunity to show off her baby bump for the first time.